Amtrak names CFO

Amtrak has named Gerald Sokol, Jr., as its new chief financial officer (CFO), reporting directly to Amtrak President and CEO Joe Boardman, effective December 3.

As CFO, Sokol will be responsible for corporate finance, business forecasting and development of growth strategies to help secure the long-term viability of Amtrak.

“Jerry’s talent and experiences are valuable assets that will further improve the Amtrak financial performance with the goal of strengthening our bottom line,” said Boardman.

“Over the past several months I have had the opportunity to look at the strength of the Amtrak brand, the growth in Amtrak’s various lines of business, the talented management team and Mr. Boardman’s strategic plan and found myself drawn to this opportunity,” stated Sokol. “Amtrak is comprised of dedicated employees with many strategic opportunities before them which, when executed successfully, will enhance our national rail system for the benefit of the American people.”

Since mid-2011, Sokol served as president and CEO of Vertis Corporation, a $1.2-billion revenue direct mail and newspaper insert printing company and he was Vertis’ chief financial officer during 2010. His prior work experience encompassed several leadership roles at AOL, including executive vice president AOL access finance, operations and strategy (2004-2009); executive vice president AOL international finance and operations (2002-2004) and senior vice president AOL international finance and operations (1999-2002).